Get Console is a terminal app for iPad and iPhone that allows you to connect to network equipment — but there are loads of terminal apps on the App Store, what’s different about this one?
For years I’ve been looking for a way to more efficiently manage network switches and access points. I’m sick of having to wait for Windows to boot, log in, and get going, even Linux on a laptop is pretty frustrating. I’ve tried netbooks, smartphones, and even considered creating my own home-brew device but I may have finally found my perfect SSH client.
Get Console is a terminal app for iPad and iPhone which allows you to SSH or telnet into switches, routers, wireless access points, Linux servers — whatever device supports access.
Two features stand out for me. First, you can buy a console cable that connects to your iPad’s 30-pin connector or lightning port allowing you to connect straight into a switch or router. No messing around with dongles, just connect.
Secondly, the software has the ability to screen share the console window to a remote user. Sharing your console session from within the app generates a unique key which you can then pass to another technician and have them log in to your session from a browser. It’s great for support, but also has applications when training technicians.
The Get Console app has all the features you’d expect from a desktop terminal program like Putty, but also features a host of options that make entering console commands simple. The app allows for scripting, storing common commands and session details, as well as multiple concurrent sessions.
Get Console also has potential applications in the classroom. If your students have access to iPads you can take ICT lessons outside of the computer lab and carry out tasks such as exploring routers and switches in non-traditional settings.
It’s just the tool I’ve been looking for and it works brilliantly. Most recently I’ve been using Get Console to manage our 80+ wireless access points remotely and manage VLANs remotely.
Get Console is £6.99 ($9.99) and is available on the iPad App Store now.
You can also purchase a variety of RedPark iPad console cables from RedPark.com.
[…] Get Console is a terminal app for iPad and iPhone that allows you to connect to network equipment — but there are loads of terminal apps on the App Store, what’s different about this one? […]